How Star Wars: Legacy of Vader Fleshes Out Kylo Ren's Lost Year

Marvel's Star Wars comics are entering a new phase. Previously, the publisher primarily focused on the year between The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, with series like Star Wars, Darth Vader, and Doctor Aphra. Following their conclusion, Marvel is expanding its storytelling to other points in the Star Wars timeline. Star Wars: The Battle of Jakku depicts the final major clash between the Rebel Alliance and the Empire. The upcoming Star Wars: Jedi Knights explores the Jedi Order before The Phantom Menace. Most notably, Star Wars: Legacy of Vader delves into the character of Kylo Ren.

IGN interviewed Legacy of Vader writer Charles Soule to discuss the series and its impact on Ben Solo's portrayal. Below is an exclusive preview.

Star Wars: Legacy of Vader - Preview Art Gallery

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Revisiting Kylo Ren

Soule, known for his work on the post-Empire Strikes Back era (including Star Wars and crossovers like War of the Bounty Hunters and Dark Droids), explains his return to Kylo Ren, a character he previously explored in 2020's The Rise of Kylo Ren. He felt there was more to tell about Kylo's story, beyond what the films revealed. Setting the book after Episode VIII allows him to explore a character undergoing significant change in a short time.

Soule also highlights his reunion with artist Luke Ross, praising their collaborative work on previous projects.

Ben Solo After The Last Jedi

Legacy of Vader is set immediately after The Last Jedi. Ben has failed to convert Rey, battled Luke, nearly killed his mother, and controls the First Order. The series explores his turmoil as he attempts to overcome his past. Soule describes Ben as deeply conflicted, even as he tries to distance himself from his past. The series begins with Ben visiting Darth Vader's fortress on Mustafar, highlighting his complex feelings towards his grandfather. Soule emphasizes Ben's dishonesty with himself and his search for guidance despite his outward posturing.

The story also delves into the First Order's internal politics, featuring characters like General Hux and General Pryde. Kylo's efforts to consolidate power within the First Order are a key element of the narrative.

Ultimately, Star Wars: Legacy of Vader aims to enrich our understanding of Kylo Ren/Ben Solo, providing insights into his choices in The Rise of Skywalker. While the outcome is known, the series will illuminate Ben Solo's internal struggles and motivations. Soule aims for a story that stands alone while also enriching the broader Star Wars canon. He promises a balance of emotional depth and action-packed sequences.

Star Wars: Legacy of Vader #1 releases February 5, 2025.